Salmon Fishing in the Yemen - A Movie Review

When things get tricky, talk to fish.

Salmon Fishing in the Yemen jumped out of the water and into theaters in 2011. Based on the book written by Paul Torday, a fisheries expert is approached by a journalist about a unique project. As they attempt to introduce salmon fishing in the Middle East, the pair realize their true feelings about happiness and romance.

Salmon Fishing in the Yemen is another film I discovered deep in the archives of underrated gems. This film has a striking concept. It’s a charming exploration of love, passion, and pursuing the impossible. However, the story is predictable and moves fast.

Ewan McGregor and Emily Blunt play Dr. Alfred Jones and Harriet. The pair have fantastic on-screen chemistry and deliver nuanced performances as their characters. Emily Blunt is always incredible in any role. Harriet is a motivated young woman who gets the project underway. Harriet is tested in several ways, mainly regarding love.

Initially, I wasn’t fond of Alfred for his lack of empathy and intolerance of following orders. However, that’s due to a specific reason. One of the best parts about Ewan McGregor’s performance is his authentic presentation of playing someone on the spectrum. Once I understood his behavior, his character grew on me more.

The film contains an assortment of characters. Credits include Amr Waked, Kristin Scott Thomas, Catherine Steadman, Tom Mison, Rachael Stirling, and Tom Beard. Each character demonstrates an opinion of the project, whether they are for it or against it. The film spends time investing in its characters, including its supporting cast.

The film presents a topic you’d never think about. How many fishing movies are there? The film is about news stories and how to conduct them. In my experience as a journalist, every idea matters. The idea of salmon fishing sounds corny, but in retrospect, you never know what you’ll learn.

We have to fight for projects because, to us, we’re telling stories for a reason. Certain audiences want to hear these stories. Of course, you do hit rocks in the roads with ideas you’re researching. Like in the movie, you have to figure out several factors and feasibility.

Salmon Fishing in the Yemen is not just about fish, but this blossoming friendship between co-workers, travel, and going after projects. However, the relationship angle takes us away from the main story. A love triangle also had to be inserted. The film becomes predictable and intervenes in ‘too good to be true’ territory.

I like the tone of the film. There are times when it’s unsure if it’s a comedy or a drama. It’s funny but takes itself seriously. It’s a political satire. Even the characters aren’t sure how to take the project seriously.

Viewers explore the stunning cultures of both Scotland and Morocco. Another reason why I liked this film was its study of culture. Culture is an essential topic for everyone because it’s an opportunity to learn about different countries, customs, and regulations. This is why we need to travel. The film has worthy cinematography of shots with salmon swimming looked majestic. The enriching music adds a good quality to the story.

After watching this film, I found out that it’s based on a book. In his direction, Lasse Halstrome erased the book’s thematic elements and changed the ending to a more positive outlook. Not all stories have to have happy endings. Things should have been left more ambiguous like in the book.

Although a bit formulaic, Salmon Fishing in Yemen is worth a watch. It deserves more recognition, especially for its unique subject.